Principal Scientist/Lab Head- CVM (Cell & Molecular Biology)

Novartis Group Companies
401(k)
United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge
Sep 04, 2025
Job Description Summary We are seeking a highly motivated PhD-level Scientist with a strong background in molecular and cell biology to provide leadership for a team of experienced BA/MS-level scientists in the Cardiovascular and Metabolic (CVM) Disease Department. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing scientific understanding of disease biology and facilitate drug discovery by supporting target validation, assay development, and drug screening across the disease area, in close collaboration with the broader research organization. This position will be located at Cambridge, MA and will not have the ability to be located remote #LI-Onsite Job Description Key Responsibilities: Lead a dedicated molecular biology team to support discovery and pipeline projects within the Biochemistry group of CVM. Supervise and provide mentorship to 2-3 experienced molecular or cellular biologists Support multiple projects in the department with reagent generation and in vitro assay development Create constructs, baculoviruses, and stable cell lines, and carry out protein expression to enable in vitro and in vivo studies. Design, develop, and implement in vitro assays to support target validation within drug discovery initiatives. Act as the molecular and cell biology expert on project teams. Conduct comprehensive data analyses and documentation of experiments. Collaborate effectively within a matrixed organizational structure. Engage in good laboratory practice, including meticulous data recording and documentation. Communicate findings regularly during laboratory and departmental meetings. Author scientific research documents and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. Role Requirements: A doctoral degree in a biology-related field, with at least five years of post-PhD experience in molecular and cell biology, as well as supervisory experience in either academic or industry settings. Hands-on experience with cellular and molecular biology methods, e.g., molecular cloning, CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing, stable cell line generation, DNA construct design for in vitro and in vivo (HDI) expression; heterologous gene expression (mammalian, E. coli, insect cell culture); qPCR, RT-PCR, FACS. Knowledge/experience with developing and executing cell-based and biochemical assays for drug discovery. Experience with design of transgenic mouse models using CRISPR-Cas9 would be a plus. Familiarity with protein purification methods would be a plus Flexibility and aptitude for learning, with the ability to quickly grasp new techniques and apply them to your work. Experience in generation, analysis, and presentation of scientific data. Creative problem-solving capabilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team-oriented environment. The salary for this position is expected to range between Principal Scientist I: $103,600- $192,400/year \| Principal Scientist II: $114.100-$211,900/year The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors. Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards. US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves. To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here. EEO Statement: The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Accessibility and reasonable accommodations The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message. Salary Range $103,600.00 - $192,400.00 Skills Desired Analytical Skill, Analytical Skill, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Curiosity, Data, Data Analysis, Design Of Experiments, Detail-Oriented, Drug Development, Drug Discovery, Ethics, Gene Therapy, Immunology, Inventory Management, Laboratory, Lifesciences, Machine Learning (Ml), Management, Medical Research, Molecular Biology {+ 10 more}